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Hello to all,
If using this device, can one avoid using either Ultra Rendu or SOtM sMS200 streamers and obtain the same results?:
It looks interesting:
The HOST
Music Server
The HOST is the first digital music server of CLONES audio.
Equipped with a high performance USB digital audio output,
Ethernet port, solid-state drive for music storage,
full linear power supply with the super low noise regulator modules.
Providing the solid foundation to the high performance playback.
The great solution for playing
and storing high resolution digital music collections.
Custom Linux OS with the ROON Server for the best performance.
Also providing the DAPHILE as the difference choice for the user.
The HOST also is the platform for audiophiles
to make his own PC based Computer Audio System.
"For those who don’t have the knowledge to handle their own build, or just lack the time to spend monkeying with it, the Clones Audio HOST makes an excellent alternative. It’s totally silent. It looks great in an audio rack. It’s very simple to get up and running. And it performs quite well with Roon assuming your music library isn’t absurdly large. The sound quality is superb too...
-John Grandberg (Part-Time Audiophile)
Features
SHAAR USB gateway for the clean and high performance USB audio class 3.0 output.
Full linear power supply.
Double POWER STATION regulator supply the SSD/SHAAR and the Main processor board separately
256GB/ 500GB/ 1TB/ 2TB internal storage option
Machined aluminum case, same structure as the ASHER DAC
Gigabit Ethernet LAN Port for network connectivity

Hi Guys,
Could you explain what is the difference between Aurender x100L vs N100H except the HDD capacity?
Aurender's network player N100 that was dedicated only to play whether from NAS or TIDAL comes now with HHD of 2TB and is called N100H. That makes it a media server and player.
Anyway, Aurender's X100S (HDD 1TB) en X100L (HDD 6TB or 12TB) are both media server and players too.
They are differently build. They cost (except the 12TB) almost the same. They are in different housing.
What is than the difference?, and obviously, which one is better?
Looking forward to clarify the case.
Cheers,
Andre

Euphony ─ a new embedded, headless OS for music servers.
I saw Matrix Audio is working on a music server and it will be running an OS called Euphony. Then I found out a German company just released a server called the Zenion and it also is running Euphony. After a little research I found out Euphony is also sold pre-installed on an SSD drive for DIY builders. So I got one and put it in a little Intel NUC computer to try it out. It required no installation or configuration at all. I just booted the computer and then was able to access the interface with my phone. You have full control of everything using just a web browser from any computer or mobile device on your network.
You can go to their site if you want to see all the features and options. The main thing I wanted to share was how surprised I was that it sounds so much better then my windows 10 computer and corresponding playback software(s). I can't explain why, but it absolutely sounds much better ─ at least to me it does. I can guess all day, but that does nobody any good. Hah. Some of it is likely due to having less background processes while the other obvious one would be less components (especially fans) between my two systems ─ a gaming PC and an intel NUC.
Some aspects of the sound really stand out to me between playback from Euphony and Windows 10 (using ASIO in my playback software of choice). Right away, the background is more black. I wouldn't say that I had an issue with the noise floor before either as my system is dead silent without humm, buzz, or hiss. The spatial image is noticeably wider, deeper, and taller ─ covering all three of the X,Y, and Z axis ─ which is likely what/why I'm hearing instruments and sounds coming from the darkest depths of the abyss compared to windows which is reproducing a smaller spatial image to work with in direct comparison. Having more space to work with, I find it easier to hear microdetail that can easily be overlooked or missed in manic musical tracks. I don't have to actively listen for the details either as they're simply there even when I'm having a passive listening session whilst multitasking or kind of tired from a long day. I've done a lot of A/B testing and honestly can't go back to windows audio after having heard Euphony ─ at least not for listening to music. "What has been heard cannot be unheard."
I've had Euphony on a NUC for a few months now and couldn't recommend it more. I've not tried any competing operating systems or music servers, so take that for what it is. Some other users may have more insight to provide than I can in the coming posts of this thread. Oh ─ before I forget ─ I did most of my A/B comparisons with a PS Audio Dectet Power Conditioner, AudioQuest NRG-X3 AC Power Cables, AudioQuest Carbon USB A─B Cable, Violectric DAC V850, Violectric HPA V280, Audeze LCD-4 (200 Ohm), and ZMF Eikon (Padauk). My source files were primarily redbook 16/44.1 lossless CD rips with a couple of exceptions ─ those being a 24/96 remastered albums and/or TIDAL HiFi streaming (which is now native in Euphony at this present time).
TNT Audio Review | HiFi Advice Review

I have made two prior inquiries to this forum concerning servers which will sound great. Keeping in mind that I am using an Ayre QB-9, which is asynchronous,the following is what I have come up with:
CAPS Zuma with Windows 12 server, Optimizer and JRiver. Cost $2,200.00
CAPS Zuma as above with linear power supply Cost $3,200.00
Mac Mini I7, ssd, JRiver, Audirvana, Amarra Cost $1,250.00
Mac Mini as above with linear power supply, Keces Cost $1,750.00
(prices are approximate)
What is the best option weighing in the quality of sound versus cost?
Thanks
Mark

With the latest firmware update (Version 18033R) SONY HAP-Z1ES is supposed to be supporting Media Server functionality.
The Helpguide says that "Some USB digital audio devices may not work for playback." (see http://helpguide.sony.net/ha/hapz1es/v1/en/contents/TP0001220509.html?search=dac )
I've tried to connect HAP-Z1ES via USB with the PowerDac Wadia 151 yet i'm getting "USB device not supported".
Has anyone faced a similar issue and is there any way how to get it working? Seems I'll have to employ a USB to spdif converter ;( Thanks

Selling 6 months old Aurender S10 music server
$3400
10/10, 'like new' condition, with a protective foil still on the display !
2TB version, but can be upgraded to 4TB or 6TB at a cost of a new HDD.
One owner unit, used in dedicated smoke, animal, and kids free listening room.
Comes in original box and packaging, detachable IEC AC power cord, all manuals, remote and warranty card.
All enquires welcome and will be answered in full.
NO TRADES.
Shipping within the EU ~ 95 EUR by DHL with full insurance. Ask for an exact quote - I pass through the same quoted shipping charges from my broker without adding in handling charges to keep the costs as reasonable as possible for the new owner.
US, Asia: $200
No VAT or duties for EU countries.

All:
I have finally found the right community to share my latest project: Designing and Building an Audiophile grade Music Server. This is my first post on Computer Audiophile so I will give a brief introduction of myself and my audio equipment:
I was in Information Technology/Computer Science for most of my working career, and about 4 years ago switched over to Research Science. I have since been published as a co-author on a paper in the field of Neuroscience, but my main specialty is Computational Finance. I also have a strong background in Electrical Engineering I learned at the University of Pittsburgh. It is with my Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, and appreciation of music that I hope to add value here to this forum as well as learn a lot from other people sharing this interest in computer audio.
My audio system consists of:
Integrated Amplifier: Creek Evolution 50A
Digital Front End: Custom Designed Linux Music Server
Digital Front End: NAD 516 CD Player
SPDIF Converter: USB to COAX M2TECH HiFACE TWO
DAC: Bryston BDA-1
Speakers: Epos Epic 2 with Epos stands
Cabling & Interconnects: AudioQuest mid-range for speaker cables and XLR from DAC to Integrated, OEM or "generic" power cables and other interconnects.
I very recently sold off my analogue front end as I found my new Linux server to exceed it sonically. It consisted of a Rega P1 turntable with Ortofon Red 2M cartridge, and a Vincent PHO-8 Phono Stage.
As for the main reason I joined this forum........ I originally posted this thread on Stereophile, but now will re-post here as I think this is a much better forum for this topic.... please reference the thread below...
I hope my experiences will help a few and I also hope to learn a lot here as well!
Respectfully,
Ron

Melco N1A ($1999)
...the level of transparency is in another league to that I have encountered with streaming servers in the past, it’s one of those rare components that makes you feel as if the truth is within your grasp. The mythical absolute sound is just a whisker away!"
-Jason Kennedy (TheEar.net)
Streaming. Solved.
Nothing is hotter than streaming audio. It promises instant access to your entire collection of music at the touch of button. Unfortunately, streaming audio also comes with the configuration of a home network and associated equipment. Almost every bug or quirk associated with streaming audio relates back to the dreaded network... So, what is an audiophile to do? With purpose-built Melco servers,we finally have a plug-n-play music storage device that requires no network configuration or computer. It plugs directly into your streamer or USB DAC, and provides 4TB of storage with UPnP operability. Simple, elegant and high performance.
Melco - Audiophile Engineering
High grade power supplies with audiophile grade components. N1A - 60W x 1
Dual high grade power supplies. N1Z – 30W x2, separate supplies for external data interfaces means no pollution of sensitive internal data and clock supplies.
Audiophile grade capacitor bank for absolute stable supplies (*N1Z only)
Solid Aluminum front fascia (N1Z) rigid metal chassis.
High stability noise eliminating H cross-frame construction for mechanical integrity (N1Z)
Specialist audio isolators (Japanese TAOC brand)
Melco - Simplified Installation and Operation
No PC required for setup and installation - no specialist knowledge needed.
Specific IP port for Streamer / Player with additional Network port for Control and Ethernet. Simply creates robust network for streaming high resolution music and control even on complex networks.
Pre-installed media server - no configuration required.
Supports multiple specialized media servers - currently shipping with Twonky 7 with DSD support.
Informative OLED front panel display - displays current streaming track data, system status, and setup.
Simple menu navigation structure and track selection
Simple front panel on-off switch - just like Hi-Fi.
15 seconds only to full power-on.
5 seconds to full shut-down
Safe against unintended power down - no requirement for UPS
Melco N1ZH ($4499)
"The Melco buffaloed my MacBook Pro + Synology NAS. It destroyed them, embarrassed them, and gave them a good schooling to boot. Music sounded frighteningly obviously comparatively more refined, more spacious, and more natural. End of story. I cannot imagine anyone in this universe who listens to music as an activity unto itself making the same comparison and not hearing the difference." - Michael Lavorgna(
Audiostream.com)
To purchase, arrange for a home trial or for more info click here

I have been streaming iPad Tidal > Wifi > Apple TV optical > DAC. Upgrading to having a Mac connected via USB to Wyred 4 Sound Remedy USB Reclocker > USB to DAC so i can not only stream in better quality but also create a music server. The sonic improvement has been eye opening. I am deciding between using a MAC Mini (2.5 Ghz and 8GB RAM) vs. the latest MacBook Air (1.6 GHZ and 8GB RAM.
Pros and Cons from my perspective; its nice to have a new laptop for occasional use and if it gets removed from the server/streaming chain occasionally i can stream using the iPad to Apple TV as before.The Mac Mini has more horsespower a TB drive on board for ripping most of my CDs to and perhaps i would have more apps and processes always turned off on the Mac Mini so a "quieter" computer might sound a bit better. On the other hand as far as storage is concerned a 1TB external drive to augment the MacBook air is pretty darn cheap. Thoughts?
Setting up the music server and using the iPad as a remote is also pretty new to me so any recommendations on Remote Control software would be appreciated. Just to get started experimenting using TeamViewer but will probably demo Audirvana for improving sound quality and using their Remote from the App Store.

So, I've written this music server which has a free version and two paid upgrade feature sets.
Is this a good place to mention it? It's a networking server - a bit like GrooveBasin.
I did casually add it to the HydrogenAudio Wiki over the Christmas break but was immediately banned and my edits deleted so I'm a bit reluctant to end up the same way here, but I can see that the CA forumship is rather more computer savvy and I don't get any feedback if no one tries it out, and to do that I have to first tell people it exists.. Fingers crossed!
My website is here: Silk: CuteStudio Ltd. SeeDeClip4: a DeClipping Multiuser Digital Music Server over HTML5.
I have sold a stand-alone declipper for years but I wasn't able to access the music very easily with that and the concept of batch conversion isn't as useful as just-in-time processing. Also because I ripped all my CDs into WAV format I found that iTunes ended up with an unintelligible list thousands of tracks link without any context. Plus my laptop has a very small disk.
So the basic idea is that it's a server/client model with the server sat on a PC with all the music on, and the client is any modern web enabled device. This can be an iPad, tablet etc or another PC. The key benefit for me with this architecture was:
1) The noisy server PC can be banished to a spare room
2) Writing for the HTML/CSS/JS plane is simpler than battling with all the native APIs in the devices.
So there you are, it's early days but the current version should be quite stable but I'd expect it will take a couple of months for all the wrinkles to be ironed out. The free base version allows you to set up a full multi-user networked audio server and has some nice playlist and DJ stack features so it should be a good centre to any DIY system too. And it's free, which is always handy.
The paid for bits are mainly for the declipping bits which is of limited interest to many.
I find it most convenient to prop an Android tablet up against my HiFi box to use it (on the wifi), at some point I'll put the effort in and get a Toslink sorted out - but I think I may need an iPad for that.
In the future I'll create an ARM build too for the Raspberry PI, I've had an earlier version run on the Seagate 1TB wifi disk so it does fit!
If you love/hate/don't understand any feature please let me know, all feedback is useful!
It's written in C for the techy among us, not the latest python/rails/etc. because that's what I'm used to, and requires HTML5 audio on the browser (i.e a modern, non Microsoft client). In fact the real product is not the music server but rather the embedded website inside, but the server is great at shaking stuff down and it does what I need it to do for me so it should be useful for others too.

Hi guys,
I was hoping you could comment on this.
Researching for my build of a music server, I saw that the Lampizator Komputer/SuperKomputer has an internal LPSU (see image).
Would you recommend this for a DIY server? If so, coud you recommend any LPSU that could do this?
Thanks a lot!

ELAC DISCOVERY MUSIC SERVER (DS-101-G) - $1099
Discover the world of computer audio without the computer.
With their latest release, ELAC continues to set the bar for more affordable high-performance audio equipment. Their latest entry is the Discovery Music Server, which at $1099 offers a high-end music server solution at a much more accessible price than most of what's available on the market. With its Tidal and AirPlay integration, ability to be used as a Roon endpoint, as well as multi-room support with synchronized audio, the Discovery Music Server looks to be a great solution for music lovers of all types.
The Discovery Music Server is designed to be the heart of a serious music system, offering playback of local and streaming music, rich multi-dimensional metadata and multi-room audio, all with an interface that anyone can master in a few minutes.
Keeping in line with quality music, the lossless, high-fidelity music streaming service Tidal® has been tightly integrated into the Discovery’s software*. Content from your local collection and content from Tidal are presented in the same beautiful, easy-to-use interface.
It’s really very simple
The Discovery Music Server lets users open their personal music vault from another computer, Apple iPad or Android tablet. Whether your choice is a full ELAC system, powered by an ELAC integrated amplifier and running an ELAC loudspeaker system, or a pair of ear buds, you can listen in one room or around the house with other Discovery-compatible products.
ELAC has slated the Discovery Music Server for an early July release. For more information or to reserve yours, please visit us here
CONNECTIONS
Analog outputs (independent zones): 2
Coaxial output (independent zone): 1 (192kHz 24-Bit Max)
Optical output: 1 (192kHz 24-Bit Max)
USB port (mass storage class): 1 USB 2.0
Ethernet port: 1 Gigabit Ethernet
END POINT SUPPORT
Discovery
AirPlay
Roon End Point
CONTROL & USER INTERFACE
ROON Essentials Control app: For iOS (64-bit Devices), Android (4.4 and higher), Windows (7, 8, and 10) and Apple OSX (10.8 and higher)
FORMAT SUPPORT
Supported Audio Formats: WAV, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC, OGG, MP3, AAC
192kHz 24-Bit Audio Formats: WAV, AIFF, FLAC, ALAC
Native Support for SPDIF/COAX: 24kHz – 192kHz
INTEGRATED STREAMING SERVICES: Tidal
Track Limit: 15,000 Tracks (Combination of Personal and Tidal Content)
PLAYBACK MODES
Gapless, Crossfade, Shuffle, and Repeat
MULTI-ROOM SUPPORT
Type: Wired and Wireless
Synchronized Audio: Yes
This product qualifies for Free Shipping and 5% back in points when you register for Club Ciamara Membership Rewards Program
1.844.CIAMARA (1.844.242.6272)
High End Audio Store NYC - Experience Ciamara

Hi,
The old laptop that I was using as media center died. The setup was modest:
AMD processor from ~2011
8 gig ram
external hard drive 3tb connected with usb 2.0
Software: Ubuntu Linux + clementine
DAC: HiFimeDIY Sabre USB DAC ES9023 96kHz/24bit
Music: a collection of FLAC files + radio (ICI Radio-Canada Première | Émissions, horaire, fréquences radio)
I will be able to rescue to external hard drive and the usb dac at least.
I am looking for a cheap replacement, so I am interested in best bang for buck up to 300$, but it can be really cheaper.
I am looking at raspberry pi with hifiberry. A bundle with case and power supply is around 150$. I am wondering with that price range, or a bit more, if I could get better sound (post dac). I am open for other options (both software and hardware). I would also like to still be able to connect to my usual internet radio station (see link above).
I have a bunch of XSPF playlist that I would like to keep and use without modification.
On a side note, that laptop was also my backup server for other usb drive, the printer server. If I use volumio, or similar software, will I be able to still perform those tasks?
I am looking forward to your suggestions.
Best regards,

I bought a microrendu 2 days ago and I feel I have to get a lot of accessories to make a "simple" system "complicated". The reason to choose microrendu is due to its simply design. Now I have to play with router / NAS / Music Servers / Extensions and worry about degrade of sound quality.
My original plan is Sotm SMS1000Q WE (or any other optimized PC, like CAD, Mojo etc). For more details about an optimized PC : any PC with low power assumption (generate less noise), separated power supply to USB, low noise circuit design, internal power filter and linear power supply ,EMI isolation, low jitter clock etc. Any kind of optimized PC can feed signal to USB DAC with highest bit rate support via STABLE PHYSICAL connection. [PC - USB DAC + linear power supply].
How about Microrendu? I was attracted by the CA reviews and bought it. Now I realize the system is not simple at all and the system may have inferior SQ due to ethernet transport parameters, plus, the routers and photoelectric conversion modules of those systems are not audiophile grade. [Music Server / Router / Microrendu / USB DAC / Several linear power supply / Maybe Ethernet Switch / NAS].
How could I convince myself to invest further in microrendu system because I could not see any advantage now. How about SOUND QUALITY?
Thanks for any suggestions.

The HOST is the first digital music server of CLONES audio. Equipped with a high performance USB digital audio output, Ethernet port, solid-state drive for music storage, full linear power supply with the super low noise regulator modules. Providing the solid foundation to the high performance playback. The great solution for playing and storing high resolution digital music collections.
Custom Linux OS with the ROON Server for the best performance. Also providing the DAPHILE as the difference choice for the user.
The HOST also is the platform for audiophiles to make his own PC based Computer Audio System.
• SHAAR USB gateway for the clean and high performance USB audio class 3.0 output.
• Full linear power supply.
• Double POWER STATION regulator supply the SSD/SHAAR and the Main processor board separately
• 256GB/ 500GB/ 1TB/ 2TB internal storage option
• Machined aluminum case, same structure as the ASHER DAC
• Gigabit Ethernet LAN Port for network connectivity
Specification
• 322mm(W) X 260mm(D) X 90mm(H)
• Weight: 7kg
• Mucic Storage: 256GB/ 500GB/ 1TB/ 2TB
• Digital Output: 2 - USB
• Other I/O: Gigabit Ethernet, USB Port X 4
• 2 YEARS WARRANTY
Price: Starting from HKD11,799(EUR1,377)*
*Solid-state hard drive and ROON licence are excluded
CLONES audio
SaveSave

This is a near-new three-month-old, mint Aurender N100H caching music server with a 2TB internal drive. It will also use networked NAS servers. It's built like a tank, beautiful fit and finish, and comes with renown, best of breed music app. It is under warranty has all original packaging, including double shipping box, cloth cover and paperwork. and I will throw in shipping to the continental US and a Supra USB cable, given 5 stars and a best-by by What Hi-Fi?
Aurender is widely considered to make the best audiophile music servers in the world and the N100H is no exception. The N100H is USB only and plays all files, including DSD and PCM up to 24 bit 384khz.
I'm not a great photographer. More pictures are available including packaging and incidentals.
From the Aurender site:
N100H
The Aurender N100H digital music player supports
DSD (DSF, DFF), WAV, FLAC, ALAC, APE, AIFF, M4A
and other major formats at native-bit and sampling rates.
Equipped with a high-performance USB digital audio output,
Ethernet port, 120GB solid-state drive for cached playback,
the N100H is also the ideal solution for playing
High-resolution digital music collections from NAS.
• 120GB SSD for caching playback
• 2TB internal storage
• Cached playback of internal and NAS contents
• Clean USB audio class 2.0 output
• Full linear power supply
• Machined aluminum case
• 3.0 inch AMOLED display
• Switchable for a variety of modes, including names
of artists and music titles
• Gigabit Ethernet LAN Port for network connectivity
• Award-winning Aurender App with convenient features
• Remote internet technical support

Hi guys. First time poster, long time lurker. A couple of years ago, I purchase an Olive 06HD. Beautiful piece of equipment that is now currently a brick. Quite bitter, but you live an you learn. Anyway, I'm considering alternatives. I currently have my music collection ripped to flac via J River. I am going to move the collection to a NAS. With that backdrop, I'm considering 3 similar, but different options.
1. Aurender N100H ($2695)+ DAC ($???) - The Aurender has a 2TB hard drive, which I could use for my core collection. But, can also access NAS. Since I use J River, would like to leverage that, unsure how that would work, though I think it is possible. The music app for the aurender seems quite robust, (though I would be using android and I understand the app is still beta there). Additionally, this would require a USB dac.
2. Sonare Signature Renu ($2895, though website says contact them for a deal) + DAC ($???) - Can leverage J River via the NAS. Would require SPDIF or i2s dac.
3. PS Audio Directstream Junior DAC ($3999) - Can leverage J River and NAS. Only piece of equipment needed.
Also, I think I would like to leverage tidal in the future, but currently don't. I know a lot depends upon the DAC that accompanies the Aurender and Sonare and I'm currently considering Shiit Yggdrasil and Chord Hugo TT, but am open to other suggestions. Anyway, what are your thoughts on these three approaches, particularly on costs, flexibility, future-proofness, and most importantly, sound quality (again, I understand DAC is key here, but I've given you some thoughts on what I am considering). On dacs, unclear on how important usb, spdif, or i2s connection type is to the equation.
thanks,
Gary

I have been reading this websites forum postings for over a year. What a great site. This is my first post. I currenctly use a low end PC to stream music to my system and I am tired of the background noise it puts out. I am ready to jump to a fanless PC. I have read the CAPS forums extensively and want to assemble my own server. I currently own the Elfidelity USB card which I would like to continue using for now with the intention of upgrading later.
I would like to ask the community if anyone has found a fanless unit with a PCI-E slot that is capable of solid streaming and rendering. The closest candidate I have found is this unit from Shuttle on Amazon.
[h=1]Shuttle XPC SH170R6 SFF Intel Skylake H170 Chipset LGA1151 i3/i5/i7/Pentium, Support 4K HD Video, Dual-channel DDR4 Max 64GB[/h]
http://www.amazon.com/Shuttle-SH170R6-Skylake-Chipset-Dual-channel/dp/B016B6B6GI/ref=sr_1_3?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1453675592&sr=1-3&keywords=shuttle+pc
While the CPU has a heat pipe cooling mechanism the power supply has a fan. Of course the power supply could be replaced with a Teradac power supply.
Has anyone found a better candidate with a PCI-E slot. I would like to keep this project under $700
[h=1][/h]
Thank you for any input you can share.

I have a home network workgroup with Sfast Fibre BB, and this has a big XPS desktop which I use for work and other stuff. I also have a Sony Android tablet that I use currently to control an old Dell XPS laptop/ Jriver server driving my Devialet 400 amps with files kept on a QNAP TS 453 mini.
I decided to bite the bullet and invest in a WServer2012 Essentials based system with AO & Jriver, so set about building a system with HD-Plex H5 chassis, Linear PS, Xeon CPU, Samsung SSD, JCat USB card, PPA SATA III (coming soon) cable, and probably the Gigabyte Z97 Mobo upgraded with PPA's OXCO clock. I can obviously run WS2012 in minimal GUI or std mode I presume.
So, as I have only just started to configure all this, and I am aware that some prefer a dual PC type of arrangement for music serving, but now I am delving into an area I am not familiar with, as I had originally intended just to replace the Dell XPS with the H5. There is also much mentioned in the AO blurb about having dual networks,
but how important is this?
Is it optimal betwix NAS and server (I presume)?
Is this just for dual PC arrangements?
Should I use my work PC as control PC (not optimised since it does other stuff)?
etc etc
Given all the equipment I have above can anyone (who has done this before) suggest some config & options and how it might affect SQ?
This music server will mostly be used for music, but I might have a go at using it to serve the telly later (or might just use an app on the QNAP), but not sure yet - music first!
Hope someone with experience in this will take the trouble to make some suggestions!
Thanks in advance!

Hi,
I am an admitted noob when it comes to music on computers. I understand computers pretty well, just not music on computers.
What I would like to do is rip/record my CD collection to a NAS unit or something like that, and then play it back through the Auxilliary input on my BOSE system. Not sure if the playback could or should go through something like a Squeezebox, Roku or other kind of streaming unit, of if I should/could build a dedicated computer for something like that. Any ideas is appreciated. Thank you!

Hi
I am wondering what the best music server software is and the best digital room correction software to go with it is, please. I have a work system that I plan to upgrade over time. It has a decent buisness PC and a Xindac DAC5 feeding Linn 11L active speakers. The problem is that the upper base can blurr together. I will upgrade in time. I expect to get a Hugo DAC, then amp(s) at least the cost as the DAC, and, say Neat Iotas, then... etc. I love the Naim sound, but if the DAC V1 isn't the greatest, then I wait longer to get my first black box.
I am computer literate and have written a Word Macro once, used to know how to update my website and wrote something once in keystroke emulation software that I can not know the name of. So, I'm not a technophobe, but I wont be programming in source code anytime soon. I know that dB is a log scale that doubles every three dB, but I forget the rule of thumb to add two sources together to get total loudness.
I don't want the be all and end all, but I can be a bit obsessional about stuff. A mainstream, powerful solution would be fine. I figure I should chose the software to work together.
JRiver and Acourate? If so, that's great.
It's a pitty HiFi books and magazines give NO guidance about this. I will really appreciate any help!

Source: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/geek-wave-it-s-not-a-next-gen-ipod-it-s-a-no-compromise-portable-music-player/
This Beauty is Also a Beast
Geek Wave's soulmate: Geek Source. Coming soon.
We've developed a bit of a notoriety (or maybe we're just notorious) in the industry for pushing the envelope on product design and product features. Well, we're at it again.
We'd like you to meet Geek Source, the "soul mate" your Geek Wave & Geek Pulse are destined to be paired with.
As its name suggests, Geek Source is THE BEST music source in your home stereo. Geek Source is the most powerful and high-end music server available for under $1000 (for now... MSRP is anticipated to be $1299). Not only does it pair perfectly with Geek Wave, but it was also specifically designed with Geek Pulse in mind. Talk about a two-fer!
We've utilized technology from Light Harmonic's Da Vinci Source, a project that we began working on in 2012 and unveiled at the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show, pairing it with our world-renowned Da Vinci DAC. The results were stellar.
Just like Geek Pulse's relationship with Da Vinci DAC, Geek Source's core design is directly derived from our soon to be released ultra high end music server: Da Vinci Source (MSRP $12,999). Same concept, same core technology, same development team, dramatically different price.
After wrapping up the Geek Pulse campaign, we realized the vast majority of audio enthusiasts were looking for a replacement for their computer-based music servers, usually a multi-media PC or Mac Mini. From this often overlooked necessity, Geek Source has been intelligently designed to be the last music server you'll ever need.
Geek Source Is A Feature Freak
Geek Source features a whopping 2TB (4TB optional) of internal hard drive storage space. That's enough space to store 5000+ Hi-Rez tracks or 50,000+ CD quality tracks!
Built in Double Phase Re-Clock Jitter Elimination circuit for all output digital circuits. Every digital output is precisely timed making it the perfect fit for any system that has a dedicated DAC.
Many of us have trouble playing FLAC or DSD files with iTunes. Fret no more. Geek Source is a high resolution music playing specialist. Looking to play FLAC, DSD, DSD2, DXD and 384K? Geek Source handles it all.
Dedicated USB audio class 2.0 output with a noise free power supply. This isn't your Grandpa's PC or MAC music server. Geek Source is a super high speed playback machine.
Less noise, more music. Geek Source has an external power supply, keeping the bad noise at bay while letting the good noise (your tasty tunes) in.
How Geek Source Works With Geek Pulse
Connect the USB cable from Geek Source to Geek Pulse and you're ready to rock. Best sounding combination under $3,000, no question about it.
How Geek Source Works With Geek Wave
Geek Source syncs with Geek Wave as a music storage source, backing up your music files onto Geek Source's hard drive. This is where it gets interesting, Geek Source features the ability to have analog playback while Geek Wave is synced to it, through your home stereo. Mind. Blown.
Due to cost restraints, there is a minimum order quantity of 200 required for Geek Source to be produced. If we don't meet this MOQ, we'll refund your contribution.

Hi,
I'm a Linux nerd, new to CA and just getting my Audiophile feet wet. I have a project in mind and could use some pointers, I have many questions.
I've gone thru the FAQ. What I'd like to know is, do people have strong opinions on the following? I'm looking for an ideal setup.
Options for a PC platform in a DIY solution:
Raspberry Pi B+ (w/Raspbian OS) and the I2S-based HiFiBerry DAC+ (RCA version)
Intel NUC and *some Linux audio OS and **some DAC
BeagleBone Black and **some DAC
I like the RPi version b/c the RPi is:
ubiquitous
cheap
reliable
familiar to me (i have several)
*Linux Audio-ish OSs
AudioPhile Linux
Daphile (x86_32/64 only)
VortexBox (Fedora-based)
any experience w/these OSs? Here, I would lean towards VortexBox only b/c I'm used to RH products.
** I'm at a loss as to which DAC to use
Or do I go for a COTS/turnkey solution?
For all-in-one solutions:
VortexBox Appliance
Totaldac d1-server (yeah, right...cha-ching!)
SOtM sMS-100
The DIY is more attractive to me b/c I foresee much customization in the future. E.g., being able to autorip CDs when you insert them would be nice. Uploading media from hand-held devices would also be good. I imagine lots of 3rd party plug-ins would come into play, too. However, if there is a COTS product out there that fits the bill, then I'd be interested in looking at it.
Also, for the audio power amplifier...any suggestions? Anything wrong with the Pyle PTA1000 1000W Professional Power Amplifier?
Also, should I care a *lot* about S/PDIF vs AES/EBU?
Another question: if I'm using a DAC, will I not be taking proper advantage of it if most of my music files are lossy (low bit rate MP3s)?
One other thing to mention, this setup would not require cloud/internet radio connectivity.
Again, I want decent SQ, nothing insane.

I have a home-built PC music server that has been wonderful to listen to. Just recently I got new SATA cables and used 3m AB5030 EMI/RFI to shield the cables and some of the chips on the motherboard.
When I start listening to music it sounds fantastic, but after 30-60 seconds it starts exhibiting major distortion and, get this, the music drops a half to full step in pitch. I've never experienced a change in pitch in the digital domain before.
For background, I am using the following:
Intel Celeron G1620 cpu with Integrated HD Graphics (so I don't have to use a video card)
MSI B75MA-E33 (Military Class III with solid caps) LGA 1155 MicroATX motherboard
Patriot Viper 3 DDR3 1600mhz 4gb (1 stick - I can add another if I need to)
Seasonic S12II SS-330GB 330w ATX 80 PLUS Certified PSU
Kingston SSDNow 200 64gb 2.5" SATAIII solid-state drive
2 Hitachi hard drives with a lot of music (and room for more of it) one 3tb and one 2tb.
An Anker Astro E4 13000mAh Portable Battery pack to power the SSD drive
ASUS Xonar DS PCI soundcard with upgraded opamps
Microsoft Server 2012
None of the equipment other than the SATA cables has changed.
_______________
What could be the cause of the increasing distortion and change of pitch?
Peter
BTW. I really appreciate all the good articles and advice I've gleaned from this website.